Talented pupils from Holmfirth High School are one step closer to victory after winning places at the finals of the National Science and Engineering Competition.

Three groups of pupils excelled in the heats.

Shona Sinnot, Matthew Beaven, Billy Healey and Chloe Roberts investigated if ‘Orphiocodyceps Uniliteralis’, the fungus which appears in popular culture in some video games, could spread to us and what would happen if it did.

Jack Smith created an innovative and unique new board game based around how plant toxins might affect the body.

Lauren Kitchen-Dunn designed and produced a living skirt and top made from recycled materials, including organic material and licing plants.

The teams will now go head-to-head with students from across the country in an attempt to claim one of the UK’s most sought after science and engineering honours for young people.

They will represent Yorkshire and Humber at the finals of the National Science and Engineering Competition held at The Big Bang UK Young Scientists and Engineers Fair at The NEC, Birmingham, in March.

Shona said: “The National Science and Engineering Competition has taken me on an amazing journey and I’ve definitely got my sights set on the big prize whilst at The Big Bang Fair in Birmingham next March.

“The best and most important discoveries and inventions are down to science and engineering, and this contest has helped me to realise that I want to be a part of that in the future.”

Imran Khan, chief executive of the British Science Association, which runs the National Science and Engineering Competition, said: “We’re thrilled that these teams from Holmfirth High School have got through as finalists and wish them all the best for the national finals at The Big Bang Fair in Birmingham.

“These projects really caught our imagination and we hope that they inspire other young people to enter the competition.”